Moving can be incredibly stressful. It consistently ranks alongside major life events like marriage, illness, and childbirth as one of the most demanding experiences you can face. Even if you’re relocating just across the city, you’re still uprooting your life in significant ways.
If you’re planning a move in Canada this year, there are effective strategies to ease the burden on your mind and body. As expert movers, we’ve mastered the art of relocation and have plenty of valuable packing hacks to share.
Before you embark on your moving journey—before you even pack your first box—consider these 7 moving hacks. These moving tips will serve as shortcuts to help you unpack and start your new life with minimal stress while maintaining your peace of mind.
1. Declutter Before Your Move
Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter your home and get rid of items you no longer need. Take a moment to evaluate your belongings: Are there pieces of furniture you’ve been meaning to replace? Do you have old electronics, charging cables, or random tech gadgets whose purpose you can’t even recall? Now is the time to let go.
Packing items that don’t add value to your life will only create unnecessary stress during your move. Donate anything you can, and toss items with no value in the trash. Consider utilizing junk removal services to help you clear out your space efficiently. This decluttering process not only lightens your load but also makes unpacking in your new home much easier!
2. Pack an Essentials Box
Moving can come with unexpected challenges, so it’s crucial to plan for the unforeseen. Imagine arriving at your new home but being unable to unpack everything on the first night. This is where an essentials box becomes invaluable.
An essentials box should contain all the must-haves you need for comfort during your first day. Mark this box clearly and include items like toiletries, a change of clothes, essential kitchenware, snacks, and your smartphone charger. This smart moving hack ensures you won’t be left scrambling for your toothbrush or other necessities while settling in.
3. Photograph Your Furniture
Do you have IKEA furniture that needs to be disassembled? Here’s an efficient moving tip that will save you time and frustration when it’s time to unpack.
For any furniture that requires assembly—such as couches, cribs, or computer desks—take photos of each piece and its assembly process. Reassembling furniture after a long day of moving can be challenging, so having visual references will make the task much easier.
Document where each part belongs and label pieces if necessary. This method can also be applied to complex setups like home theater systems or other intricate arrangements of equipment and electronics, ensuring a smooth reassembly in your new home.
4. Use Towels and Blankets for Packing
Everyone has fragile items that need extra protection during a move. Instead of purchasing a ton of bubble wrap, consider using your towels and blankets as padding. This packing hack not only saves money but also provides excellent cushioning for your valuables.
Additionally, there are various moving shortcuts you can employ for packing breakables. For instance, use paper plates to separate glass plates or egg cartons to keep jewelry safe. Items like folded socks or crumpled newspapers can also serve as protective padding. Just remember to mark any boxes containing fragile items to avoid mishaps during the move.
5. Find Free Boxes
When it’s time to pack your belongings, purchasing boxes from a moving company is often the easiest and most convenient option. It saves you time and effort, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move.
However, if you’re looking to save money, consider this shortcut: many local stores, such as clothing shops, grocery stores, and retail outlets, often have boxes they’re ready to dispose of. Don’t hesitate to stop by and ask if you can take a few boxes home. Just be selective, as not all boxes will be sturdy enough for your items!
6. Hire a Professional Moving Company
First-time movers often discover the immense value a moving company can bring to the process. Packing your items into boxes, loading them onto a truck, and transferring them to your new home can be a daunting task, especially if it involves multiple trips. Then comes the unpacking—it’s a lot of work!
While packing on your own might seem like a way to save money, it often leads to wasted time, increased stress, and logistical challenges. Hiring professional movers simplifies the entire process and is well worth the investment!
Before choosing a moving company, be sure to check online reviews to ensure they are trusted and reliable. Look for testimonials that highlight their professionalism and service quality, helping you make an informed decision.
7. Take Your Time Unpacking
Once the movers have left and all your boxes are in your new home, it’s time to take a deep breath and slow down. Although the most challenging parts of your move are complete, there’s still plenty to enjoy as you arrange your new space.
With the moving hacks you’ve employed, you now have the flexibility to savor this exciting transition. If you have children, consider unpacking their boxes first to help them feel comfortable and settled in. For adults, there’s no rush—take your time to make the process enjoyable.
While you might want to unpack your mattress for a good night’s sleep, there’s no need to rush into unpacking everything at once. In fact, consider ordering takeout or dining at a local restaurant instead of cooking on your first day. It’s all about easing into your new home!
Plan to give yourself a few days to relax and unpack gradually. These shortcuts and moving tips can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, providing you with the flexibility you need. The key is to have as much support as possible, which is why hiring quality, trusted movers is highly recommended.
Be thoughtful in your approach to unpacking and planning your moving day. With a bit of preparation, effective packing hacks, support from professional movers, and a focus on keeping the process low-stress, you’ll set yourself up for a successful move!
